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Manchester City agree deal for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi

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2 sources · United Kingdom

Who reported this

  • The Guardian United Kingdom · Centre-left · Scott Trust Limited
  • BBC News United Kingdom · Centre · Public · Licence fee, royal charter

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Manchester City have agreed a deal in principle with Lille to sign 18 year old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for a total value of 100 million euros. The agreement consists of an initial fee of 81.4 million pounds with additional add ons valued between 4.2 million and 5 million euros. The Morocco international is expected to complete his move to England following a medical.

Bouaddi is known as a deep lying conductor who operates mainly as a number six. He gained prominence after a starring role in Lille's Champions League victory over Real Madrid and started five of Morocco's six matches during their run to the World Cup quarter finals this summer. He holds the record as the youngest footballer to play for Lille and the youngest to play in the Conference League.

This signing follows Manchester City's acquisition of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for 116 million pounds. To fund these reinforcements, City sold midfielder Rodri to Barcelona for 65 million pounds and Tijjani Reinders to Al Qadsiah for 52 million pounds. The club remains interested in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, though sources indicate a valuation gap exists as Chelsea seeks 120 million pounds.

City are scheduled to host Bournemouth in their Premier League opener on Sunday, coming off a Community Shield loss to Arsenal.

How each side framed it

Centre-left
The center left outlet emphasized the club's total summer spending and the specific financial mechanics of the transfer.
Centre
The center outlet focused on Bouaddi's personal achievements and his tactical fit alongside Elliot Anderson.

Sources

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